Protests erupt outside Los Angeles Home Depot amid federal enforcement operations

A protest erupted in Los Angeles today as the region’s top federal prosecutor said federal law enforcement operations were “proceeding as planned” across the county.

“I urge the public to refrain from interfering with these lawful actions. Anyone who obstructs federal agents will face arrest and prosecution,” said Bill Essayli, U.S. Attorney for California’s Central District. 

At least 30 officers wearing tactical gear and gas masks could be seen positioned across the street from a Home Depot in Paramount, south of downtown Los Angeles. 

It wasn’t immediately clear who the officers work for or why they were there.

Shopping carts were strewn across smoke-filled streets occupied by dozens of people. Some appeared to throw things toward the officers. At one point a fire was lit in the street.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said it was on scene ​“to assist with keeping the peace but not get involved with any detentions or arrests.”